We all want to be successful. And we all like to be right. The problem is, those two things are frequently in opposition.

Whether in sales, customer service, leadership, or our personal relationships, we are often faced with the uncomfortable choice of catering to our ego or catering to the issue at hand.

And it astounds me how many people will choose their ego every time, despite the fact it damages relationships, exacerbates problems and prevents them from succeeding.

That’s the blinding power of excessive ego, which stems from insecurity. And it’s one of the hallmarks of people who seem to constantly struggle without ever reaching their goals.

If you need to be right all the time, customers will stop buying from you, employees will find other jobs, and friends and family will avoid you.

With few exceptions, the most successful people in every field are the ones who have enough self-confidence to allow others to be right. They understand that being wrong in the moment doesn’t mean they’re failures, and that asking for other people’s advice, help and forgiveness is crucial for achieving long-term success.

If you’re wrong, acknowledge it. People will respect you more. If you need assistance, ask for it. Most people are happy to help because it makes them feel important and valued.

With that in mind, here are nine powerful phrases to help you achieve more sales, business and personal success:

1. You’re right.
2. I was wrong
3. That’s a good idea.
4. What do you think?
5. I would love your feedback.
6. Let’s try that.
7. I could use your help.
8. Thank you.
9. I’m sorry.

Use these phrases liberally. They will strengthen your relationships, generate more ideas and create more success in your life.